System and method for projecting information from a wireless device

ABSTRACT

A system and method for projecting information from a wireless messaging device. User preferences are received for projecting the information. An event is detected. Information regarding the event is projected onto a surface in response to detecting the event.

BACKGROUND

Cell phone usage has dramatically increased over the last ten years. Thegrowth is fueled by larger networks with more reliable protocols andbetter communications hardware available to both service providers andconsumers. With these advances there have also been advances in thefeatures offered by cell phones. In particular, the new features allowthe cell phone to be a very integrated part of daily life.

Three features almost universally included with cell phones are a clock,alarm, and caller identification (ID). The caller ID feature is usefulfor screening calls or being alerted in advance of incomingcommunications. The clock and alarm function allow a user to know whatthe time is, even if they do not have access to a clock or watch. Thealarm function may serve as an event reminder or may replace a standardalarm clock. These features give the cell phone increased functionality,but have limitations.

SUMMARY

One embodiment includes a system and method for projecting informationfrom a wireless device. User preferences are received for projecting theinformation. An event is detected. Information regarding the event isprojected onto a surface in response to detecting the event.

Another embodiment provides a wireless messaging device configured forprojection. The wireless messaging device may include display logicconfigured to determine that an event is occurring and informationassociated with the event. The wireless messaging device may alsoinclude a projector in communication with the display logic configuredto project the information onto a surface.

Yet another embodiment provides a wireless messaging device configuredfor projection. The wireless messaging device may include a processorfor executing a set of instructions and memory for storing the set ofinstructions. The set of instructions may be configured to receive userpreferences for projecting information, detect an event, determine aprojector of one or more projectors of the wireless messaging devicesuitable for projecting the information, and project the informationregarding the event onto a surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described indetail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which areincorporated by reference herein and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a wireless environment inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a pictorial representation of a wireless messaging devicedisplaying user preferences in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 3 is a pictorial representation of a wireless messaging deviceprojecting time and call information in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of components of a wireless messaging deviceused to project information in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for projecting call information inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for projecting event information inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a pictorial representation of a graphical user interface forconfiguring projection of call or event information in accordance withan illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a pictorial representation of a projection environment inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a pictorial representation of a projection phone linked to aserver projecting feed information in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 10 is a pictorial representation of an interactive projection phonesystem in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process for projecting video callinformation in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

An illustrative embodiment provides a system and method for projectingcall or event information from a cell phone or other wireless messagingdevice. An embodiment may be used to project caller ID information, acurrent time, battery status, or other information through a wirelessmessaging device. In one embodiment, a user may determine how and wheninformation is displayed through a projector of a cell phone. The usermay select user preferences through use of a graphical user interface.The wireless messaging device may include a program, feature, orinstructions for executing the user preferences.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a system and method forprojecting calls, events, or other information from a land line phone.The land line phone is a data enabled phone configured to projectinformation and images through one or more integrated or externalprojectors. In one embodiment, the land line phone is a home or officeVoIP phone. The land line phone may be used to project calleridentification (ID) information, time information, presentations,images, videos, holograms, pictures, or updates from syndicated feeds. Auser may establish user preferences that specify how and wheninformation will be displayed through the use of a projector integratedwith the land line phone. A user may select the user preferences throughthe use of a graphical user interface.

FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a wireless environment inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. The wireless environment 100may include a user 102, a wireless messaging device 104, a charger 106,a projection field 108, projected information 110, and a display surface112. The wireless environment 100 is an environment in which the usermay utilize the wireless messaging device 104. The wireless environment100 may be a bedroom, dorm, office, hotel room, or other room within ahome, business, or organization.

In one embodiment, the wireless messaging device 104 may be a telephone.The wireless messaging device 104 may also be a particular type oftelephone, such as a VoIP phone, a cell phone, a personal digitalassistant (PDA), a Blackberry® device, a communications enabled mp3player, digitally enhanced cordless telephone (DECT), a cordless phone,a WiFi® enabled phone, a pager, or other wired or handheld wirelessdevice suitable for voice and/or data communication. The wirelessmessaging device 104 may be in any number of positions including prone,standing, on a side, propped against something, or docked within adocking station to name a few. The wireless messaging device 104 may beoperating on a battery or may be charging or powered by the charger 106.The charger 106 is an external power connection. In one embodiment, thecharger 106 may be a docking station or base station. For example, thewireless messaging device 104 may be a cordless telephone thatcommunicates with the base station through a cordless, WiFi, Bluetooth®,or other short range signal.

The wireless messaging device 104 is equipped with one or moreprojectors or projection elements. In one embodiment, once acommunication or event is received or detected by the wireless messagingdevice 104, the wireless messaging device 104 may generate a projectionfield 108 to display the projected information 110. The projection field108 is the light medium that projects or transmits the projectedinformation 110 onto the display surface 112 in the wireless environment100. The projected information 110 is the information or data displayedby the projector or projection element of the wireless messaging device104. In one embodiment, the projected information 110 includes caller IDinformation, device information, or a summary of an incoming message asreceived. For example, if the wireless messaging device 104 receives anincoming call, the projected information 110 may display the caller'sname or an assigned nickname, as well as a phone number. The caller IDinformation may also include an account number, username, InternetProtocol IP) address, avatar, picture, or other information associatedwith the party or device communicating with the user 102 through thewireless messaging device 104.

The projected information 110 may also include information about anevent. In one embodiment, the event may be a calendar item, alarm, orother information stored within the wireless messaging device 104. Forexample, information regarding an appointment or a wake-up alarm may bedisplayed as part of the projected information 110. The projectedinformation 110 for the illustrative embodiments may also include timeinformation, presentations, images, videos, holograms, pictures, orupdates from syndicated feeds.

The projected information 110 may be continuously displayed according touser preferences. For example, the user preferences may indicate thatcaller ID information is to be displayed during the entire time thewireless messaging device 104 is ringing or for a maximum of tenseconds. In another example, the projected information 110 may bedisplayed for an alarm once every five minutes until user input or avoice command is received from the user 102.

The projected information 110 may be projected through the use of aprojection field 108 generated by a projector of the wireless messagingdevice 104. The projected information 110 may be displayed and orientedaccording to user preferences. The projected information 110 may beprojected onto a display surface 112. The display surface 112 is a wall,ceiling, floor, furniture, or other element within the wirelessenvironment 102 that may allow the projection information 110 to bevisible to the user 102. For example, the wireless messaging device 104may transmit the projection field 108 onto the ceiling when placed on adresser. In another example, the wireless messaging device 104 mayproject the projected information 110 onto a wall when docked in acradle or docking station. In one embodiment, the projected information110 may be projected so that it is horizontally displayed regardless ofthe positioning of the user. For example, the projected information mayinclude text information that is displayed on the ceiling or at a heightof approximately six feet from the ground as if the user were standingup regardless of the position or location of the user.

In the embodiment shown in the wireless environment 100, the wirelessmessaging device 104 may allow the user 102 to view the projectedinformation 110 without having to pick up the wireless messaging device104 enabled for projection. In one embodiment, the wireless messagingdevice 104 may need to be hooked to a charger 106 if the projectedinformation 110 is set for continuous display. Most cell phone usersalready plug their phones in at night, so this system may provide anextra use for a previously established habit. The projection element ofthe wireless messaging device 104 is further described in FIG. 2.

FIG. 2 is a pictorial representation of a wireless messaging devicedisplaying user preferences in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. The shown wireless messaging device 200 is a particularimplementation of the wireless messaging device 104 of FIG. 1. Thewireless messaging device 200 may include a graphical user interface202, buttons 204, and a projector 206. The graphical user interface 202may include selection elements and options for configuring the projector206 as described herein.

The graphical user interface 202 may be configured by a user through theuse of buttons 204. In other embodiments, the buttons 204 may beportions of a touch screen or any other interactive element suitable forconfiguring the wireless messaging device 200.

The projector 206 may include a light emitting diode (LED), digitallight processing (DLP), or a laser light source or any other projectionelement suitable for projecting information. A laser light source mayallow the projected information to always be in focus. In anotherembodiment, a LED may be used with an integrated sensor to determine thedistance to the display surface, thereby allowing optimal clarity forthe projected images.

The projector 206 may be a fixed position projector, only displayinginformation straight on. In another embodiment, the projector 206 maypivot, allowing the angle of projection to be adjusted. This may allow auser to display information on a desired surface without using a base toprop up the wireless messaging device 200.

The wireless messaging device 200 may include a projector 206 on eitherside or the top to allow information to be viewed no matter how thewireless messaging device 200 is set down. In one embodiment, aprojector may be included on both sides and a sensor may measure theamount of light to determine which projector should be utilized fordisplaying information.

In another embodiment, a single projector may be utilized that projectsfrom the top of the wireless messaging device 200. The projector 206 mayprotrude slightly from the edge or case of the wireless messaging device200 and be encased in a transparent material for protection. Theprojector may pivot within the protective casing which may allow agreater range of user preferences. The user may select which surface toproject information onto or a sensor may be integrated to determinewhich surface is closest for projection.

In another embodiment, a user may purchase a battery with an integratedprojector. The user may then be able to utilize the benefits of aprojector without having to buy a new phone. The projector maycommunicate with the other components and elements of the phone throughthe leads utilized by a standard battery. The projector 206 may includeany number of accelerometers or other position sensors for properlyorienting the displayed information according to position and userpreferences.

FIG. 3 is a pictorial representation of a wireless messaging deviceprojecting time and call information in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. FIG. 3 may include a wireless messaging device 300, aprojection field 302, and a projection display 304 which may includecall information 306, time information 308, and battery information 310.

The wireless messaging device 300 may create a projection field 302through the use of an integrated projector to create a projectiondisplay 304. In another embodiment, the wireless messaging device 300may include a battery integrated with a projector or an attachableprocessor.

The projection field 302 may be created through LED, laser light, one ormore projection bulbs, or other light sources. The projection field 302may also utilize different colors according to user preferences. Forexample, the wireless messaging device 300 may use extremely brightcolors and projection intensity to alert the user of an incoming calland less intense colors and light projection to periodically display thetime or battery status.

The projection display 304 may be configured to display informationaccording to user preferences. For example, a user may be able to adjusthow large the projected information will appear by establishing userpreferences through a user interface. The user may also establish userpreferences for activating the projector. For example, the projector ofthe wireless messaging device 300 may be activated hourly for fiveseconds to display the time information 308, battery information 310,and a list and number of any missed calls.

The projection display 304 may include call information 306. The callinformation 306 may include the name of the caller, the caller's phonenumber, the caller's location (home, cell, work), and other relevantcall information identified through caller identification information orinformation programmed by the user.

The projection display 304 may include time information 308. The timeinformation 308 may include the current time and date. For example, thetime information 308 may display time for a number of time zones forreference by the user. The time information 308 may also include a timeror count down until a specified event.

The projection display 304 may include battery information 310. Thebattery information 310 may allow a user to view the current status ofthe battery power for the wireless messaging device 300 or if the deviceis charging. The wireless messaging device 300 may project the batteryinformation 310 more frequently as the battery approaches exhaustion sothat the user may charge the battery or take another action.

The projection display 304 may be set to rotate at intervals. A user mayset down the wireless messaging device 300 the wrong direction which maymean the projected information would appear upside down to the user. Thedisplay may rotate at a customizable interval to allow the user to readthe projected information no matter how the device is placed.Alternatively, the wireless messaging device 300 may utilizeaccelerometers or position sensors to ensure that the projection display304 is projected horizontally regardless of the positioning of thewireless messaging device 300. In one embodiment, the projector of thewireless messaging device 300 may utilize one or more mirrors, lenses,or wave guides to project information for display to the user. Forexample, a pivotally mounted fiber optic laser projector may transmitthe projection display 304. The wireless messaging device 300 may alsouse a laser or other measurement system to display information on presetsurfaces or at a specified height. For example, the wireless messagingdevice 300 may be configured not to display information on windows oruneven surfaces, such as blinds or pictures at a height of three to fourfeet below the ceiling of a room.

The projection display 304 may be created through projecting all of theinformation at once, or the information may be traced by the lightsource to allow the user to view the information. Information tracingmay be utilized to reduce the amount of energy the wireless messagingdevice 300 uses to project the projection field 302.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of components of a wireless messaging deviceused to project information in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. A wireless messaging device 400 may include a processor 402,memory 404, display logic 406 controlled by user preferences 408, and aprojector 410. The wireless messaging device 400 is a particularimplementation of the wireless messaging device 104 of FIG. 1.

The wireless messaging device 400 may include a processor 402 forformatting, carrying out, responding to, and processing the basicinstructions stored in the memory 404, as well as processing programs,commands, managing, and otherwise controlling the projector 410.

The processor 402 is circuitry or logic enabled to control execution ofa set of instructions. The processor 402 may be a microprocessor,digital signal processor, central processing unit, or other devicesuitable for controlling an electronic device including one or morehardware and software elements, executing software, instructions,programs and applications, converting and processing signals andinformation, and performing other related tasks. The processor 402 maybe a single chip or integrated with other computing or communicationselements.

The memory 404 is a hardware element, device, or recording mediaconfigured to store data for subsequent retrieval or access at a latertime. The memory 404 may be static or dynamic memory. The memory 404 mayinclude a hard disk, random access memory, cache, removable media drive,mass storage, or configuration suitable as storage for data,instructions, and information. In one embodiment, the memory 404 andprocessor 402 may be integrated. The memory may use any type of volatileor non-volatile storage techniques and mediums.

The display logic 406 is the hardware and software components thatcontrols the projector 410 of the wireless messaging device 400. Thedisplay logic 406 may be configured according to user preferences 408through the use of a graphical user interface as shown in FIG. 7. Thedisplay logic 406 and user preferences 408 may control when theprojector 410 is activated or deactivated, the settings for operatingthe projector 410, and the information displayed.

The projector 410 is a light-emitter. The projector 410 may be anydevice suitable for projecting caller identification information, text,or images for enlarged viewing. The projector 410 may have an integratedlight source, optics system, electronics, and displays for the purposeof projecting an image onto a wall, ceiling, or any other suitablesurface. The projector may utilize LED, digital light processing (DLP®),one or more bulbs, or laser technology for a light source.

In one embodiment, the projector 410 is multiple fiber optics or waveguides that are pivotally mounted to the wireless messaging device 400.The fiber optics act as wave guides for projecting various colors andparts of the displayed information simultaneously. The broadcastingelements of the projector 410 may be focused or directed at a specifiedsurface. In one example, the projector 410 may be encapsulated by asemi-circle of plastic or glass that provides protection and allows theprojected information to be displayed at 180 degrees or more in the x ory axis and 360 degrees in the other axis.

The user preferences 408 may store preferences for directing theprojector 410 during specific times of day, locations, or uses. Forexample, phone calls and time information displayed at night may bedisplayed on the ceiling and alerts may be displayed on a designatedwall. The projector 410 may be pivotally directed at the selecteddisplay surface automatically or based on the user preferences 408.

In another embodiment, the wireless messaging device 400 may be a VoIPphone configured to perform the processes and features herein described.Accordingly, the wireless messaging device 400 may include any number ofother components including interfaces, displays, transceivers, logic,circuitry, or other elements for the wireless, VoIP, and POTSembodiments herein described.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for projecting call information inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process of FIG. 5 may beimplemented by a wireless messaging device enabled for voicecommunications. The process may begin by receiving a call (step 502). Inone embodiment, the call may be the electronic signaling received by thephone before the wireless messaging device begins to ring. The call ofstep 502 may also be a message, such as an email, text, picture, video,or voice message.

Next, the wireless messaging device determines whether the projector isenabled (step 504). The determination of step 504 may be made based onuser preferences, configurations, or settings. In one example, theprojector may need to be turned on to be enabled. For example, the usermay have activated the projector to display call information at nightafter 8:00 p.m. In another example, the projector may be disabled oncethe battery power drops below a specified level or threshold. If theprojector is not enabled, the wireless messaging device processes thecall normally (step 506).

If the projector is enabled in step 504, the wireless messaging deviceactivates the projector (step 508). The projector may be activated todisplay caller identification information, data, information, or otherimages. The projector may be activated by transmitting a projectionfield on one or more surfaces within a room. In one embodiment, theprojector may determine the nearest display surface and project the callinformation on that surface. The projector may be a fiber opticprojector that may be directionally pointed and focused by the wirelessmessaging device. The projector may use positioning sensors to determinean orientation for projecting the call information on a pre-establisheddisplay surface, such as a wall or portion of the ceiling.

In one embodiment, the wireless messaging device may include multipleprojectors and only the projector that is properly positioned to displaythe call information may be activated. For example, a cell phone may berectangularly shaped and include a projector on both sides near thedisplay and the battery. If the cell phone is laid on a table with thedisplay down, the projector near the battery may be activated fordisplaying the call information and vice versa. In another embodiment,the wireless messaging device may rotate the projector to a desiredlocation and direction before projecting call information.

Next, the wireless messaging device projects the call information (step510). The call information may be displayed according to userpreferences established by the user. For example, the user preferencesmay indicate that a name, number, battery status, and caller picture, ifentered in the directory of the phone, be displayed when a call isreceived.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for projecting event information inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process of FIG. 6 may beimplemented by a wireless messaging device equipped with one or moreintegrated or external projectors. The process may begin by receivinguser preferences for one or more events (step 602). The events may becalendar items, alarms, reminders, messages received or sent, or otheritems programmed into the wireless messaging device. The userpreferences may specify the settings and configuration for displayinginformation, data, and/or images that are displayed by the projector ofthe wireless messaging device. For example, the user preferences mayindicate conditions, such as all calendar reminders for a day aredisplayed at 7:15 a.m.

Next, the wireless messaging device determines whether event conditionsare met (step 604). The determination of step 604 may be made by aprogram, logic, or other elements of the wireless messaging device. Theevent conditions may be specified by the user preferences of step 602,settings and external input. If the event conditions are not met, thedetermination of step 604 is repeated.

If the event conditions are met in step 604, the wireless messagingdevice projects the event information (step 606). The event informationmay be projected to a random or pre-selected display surface. Forexample, during the night, any alarms or alerts may be displayed on theceiling of a bedroom or hotel room where the user is sleeping. Duringthe day, the wireless messaging device may be configured to broadcastthe event information directly from an end of the wireless messagingdevice. The orientation of the event information may also be configured.

FIG. 7 is a pictorial representation of a graphical user interface forconfiguring the projection of a call or event information in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment. The graphical user interface 700 mayinclude an event preferences menu 702 which may include an on/offelement 704, a date selection element 706, a time selection element 708,an alert type selection element 710, a projection intensity selectionelement 712, and an import selection element 714. The interface 700 mayalso include a clock preferences menu 716 which may include an on/offelement 718, a time interval selection element 720, an alert typeselection element 722, and a projection intensity selection element 724.The interface 700 may also include an alarm preferences menu 726 whichmay include an on/off element 728, a time selection element 730, analert type selection element 732, a projection intensity selectionelement 734, a frequency selection element 736, and an on/off elementfor call information 738. The various components or elements of thegraphical user interface 700 may be icons, drop down menus, buttons,portions of a touch screen, indicators, or other interactive elementsfor receiving input from a user.

The graphical user interface 700 may include an event preferences menu702. The event preferences menu 702 may include selection elements thatallow a user to establish user preferences indicating when eventinformation will be projected and if the projection of the event isaccompanied by an alarm. The on/off element 704 may allow a user toactivate or deactivate the projection of event information.

The date selection element 706 may allow a user to specify a date for aspecific event. For example, the wireless messaging device may beconfigured to project information as a birthday reminder on the date ofa loved one's birthday. Similarly, business or personal appointments maybe entered through the event preferences menu 702.

Time selection element 708 may allow a user to input a time that theevent information is projected. Continuing with the birthday example, auser may want the alarm to go off early in the morning with the eventinformation projected on a display surface so that the user may rememberto call during the day.

Type selection element 710 may allow a user to specify an alert type toaccompany the projected information. An alert may include a tone, aring, vibration, or any other suitable alert utilized by wirelessmessaging devices.

Intensity selection element 712 may allow a user to adjust the intensityof the projected information. The light intensity of the projectedinformation may be linked with a priority of the event or with a userselection. For example, if the event has a high priority to the user,the wireless messaging device may be adjusted to display information atthe projector's brightest setting.

Import selection element 714 may allow a user to import events fromexternal devices, applications, or sources. For example, events may besynchronized, extracted, or received from an electronic calendarprogram. Importing events from an electronic calendar may allow a userto get the full benefit of having an integrated projector. Eventinformation may be retrieved from a server that stores emailinformation, calendar items, or other alerts that may be uploaded to thewireless messaging device.

The graphical user interface 700 may also include the clock preferencesmenu 716. The clock preferences menu 716 may include selection elementsthat control the display of time information. The on/off element 718 mayallow a user to activate or deactivate the projection of timeinformation.

The interval selection element 720 may allow a user to specify thefrequency or time period that controls how often the time information isdisplayed. For example, a user may specify that time information to bedisplayed in half hour or hour intervals throughout the night from 8:00p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Alert type selection element 722 may allow a user tospecify an alert to accompany the projected information. An alert mayinclude a tone, a ring, vibration, or any other suitable alert utilizedby wireless messaging devices.

Projection intensity selection element 724 may allow a user to adjustthe intensity of the projected information. The projection intensityselection element 724 may allow a user to specify a color, lightintensity, and other projection features that control the informationand images projected from the projector. For example, a user may want tohave the time projected throughout the night at a very low intensityusing the color blue.

The graphical user interface 700 may include an alarm preferences menu726. The alarm preferences menu 726 may include selection elements tocontrol when the projector may accompany an alarm. The on/off element728 may allow a user to activate or deactivate the projection of alarminformation. The time selection element 730 may allow a user to enter atime for the projector to display time information to serve as an alarmclock. Type selection element 732 may allow a user to specify an alertto accompany the projected information. An alert may include a tone, aring, vibration, or any other suitable alert utilized by wirelessmessaging devices.

The projection intensity selection element 734 may allow a user toadjust the intensity of the projected information. For example, a usermay want the projector to be on its brightest setting to help them wakeup in the morning.

The frequency selection element 736 may allow a user to determine howfrequently the alarm goes off and is accompanied by the projector. Forexample, a user may wish to have the projector go off with an alarm at aspecified time, every morning, weekdays, or weekends. The on/off element738 may also allow a user to determine whether call information isprojected.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a system and method forprojecting a call, event, or other information from a phone. In oneembodiment, the phone may be a data enabled land line phone configuredto project information and images through one or more integrated orexternal projectors. However, the phone may be a VoIP phone, DECT phone,cordless phone, WiFi enabled phone, or wireless communication devicesuitable for communicating data, information, and images through anetwork connection or other phone line. The phones may be used toproject caller identification ID) information, time information,presentations, images, or updates from syndicated feeds. A user mayestablish user preferences that specify how and when information wilt bedisplayed through the use of a projector integrated with the land linephone. A user may select the user preferences through the use of agraphical user interface.

FIG. 8 is a pictorial representation of a projection environment inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. The projection environment800 may include a user 802, a projector phone 804, a projection field806, projected information 808, and a display surface 810.

In the projection environment 800 the user 802 may be able to view thecurrent time, streaming information from one or more sources or callinformation 808 without having to pick up the projection phone 804 oraccessing a computer or similar device. The projection phone 804 is avoice communications device configured to project data, text, or otherimages herein referred to as information onto one or more displaysurfaces. In one embodiment, the projection phone 804 may be a VoIP,digitally enhanced cordless telephone (DECT), cell phone, or a WiFi®enabled phone. In another embodiment, the projection phone 804 may be astandard analog phone.

Once an incoming call or event information is received, the projectionphone 804 may generate a projection field 806 to display the desiredinformation 808. In one embodiment, the projection field 806 may displaythe image of a user for enabling a video phone call. In anotherembodiment, the projection phone 804 may display a presentation,document, or feature sent to the user 802 from another projection phone,computer, wireless messaging device, or client. For example, during aconference call the projection phone 804 may display a presentationcommunicated to multiple users in order to view and follow along withthe content and elements communicated by a presenting party. Theinformation may continuously be displayed during a call, until the userdeactivates the projector or projection feature of the projection phone804, or pre-established times or time intervals. For example, a user mayset the projection phone 804 to project the time every hour or halfhour.

The display information 808 may be projected through the use of aprojection field 806 created by an integrated projector. The displayinformation 808 may be configured according to user preferences. Theuser may change the size of displayed information, color, amount of timethe information is displayed, or a number of other user preferences.

The display information 808 may be projected onto a display surface 810.This surface may be a wall, the ceiling, a screen, or any other suitablesurface to allow the user 802 to view the desired information. In oneexample, the projection phone 804 may project the information onto asmall screen or portion of a desk. The projection phone 804 may bepositioned so that the projection field 806 projects the displayinformation 808 on to the display surface 810 selected by the user. Theuser 802 may select the display surface 810 based on the current usageof the projection phone 804 and the information displayed.

In one embodiment the display information 808 may include callinformation. The call information 808 may include the name of thecaller, the caller's phone number or IP address, a picture or image ofthe caller, and the caller's location (home, cell, work).

FIG. 9 is a pictorial representation of a projection phone linked to aserver projecting feed information in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. In one embodiment, a projection system 900 may be utilizedto display information to a user. The projection system 900 may includea server 902, a network 904, a projection phone 906, an integratedprojector 908, a projection field 910, and display information 912.

Communications within the projection system 900 may occur on any numberof networks which may include wireless networks, cable networks,satellite networks, private networks, publicly switched telephonenetworks (PSTN), data or packet networks, or other types ofcommunication networks. The network 904 is infrastructures for sendingand receiving messages, voice communications, signals, and informationaccording to one or more designated formats, standards, and protocols.In particular, the projection phone 906 may receive feeds or othersyndicated information through the network. The network 904 of theprojection system 900 may represent a single communication serviceprovider or multiple communications services providers. The features,services, and processes of the illustrative embodiments may beimplemented by the projection phone 906 and one or more elements of thecommunications system 900 independently or as a networkedimplementation. The network 904 may include one or more devices andcommunications channels for communicating voice communications, data,packets, and/or other information. The network 904 may include controland management devices, software, and communications lines and linkssuitable for directing telecommunications to a specified location ordevice. The network 904 may communicate with the projection phone 906through one or more wired or wireless connections. For example, theconnection may be a standard analog connection, a VOIP connection, or aWiFi connection.

The server 902 is a device or application that communicates data,information, or messages to the projection phone 906 through the network904. The user may provide user input or requests through the projectionphone 906, a client device, or other communications equipment in orderto receive content from the server 902. The server 902 represents one ormore servers that may be stand-alone devices or may be integrated withother systems, programs, or devices, such as the network 904. The server902 may be configured to provide information to the phone 906 throughthe use of a network connection. For example, the server 902 maycommunicate information to the phone 906 including news, sports, stockupdates, or weather updates.

In another embodiment, information sent to the projection phone 906 maybe customized even further. When subscribing to receive content from awebsite or from a service provider operating the server 902, a user mayspecify that only information pertaining to the user's area code issent. If a tornado warning was issued for their area it mayautomatically be displayed by the projector.

In another embodiment, information communicated to the projection phone906 and displayed by the integrated projector 908 may include apresentation. For example, a calling party may communicate a slideshowthat is automatically projected by the integrated projector 908 of theprojection phone 906 during a conversation. The projection phone 906 mayallow a user to receive data, information, presentations, and imageswithout tying up a client device, such as the user's work computer.

The projection phone 906 may include a graphical user interface whichmay include selection elements and options for configuring theintegrated projector 908.

The projection field 910 may be created by an integrated projector 908.The projection field 910 may be created through the use of lightemitting diodes (LED), digital light processing (DLP), or lasers. Theintegrated projector 908 may use a laser light source which may allowthe projected information to always be in focus. In another embodiment,the integrated projector 908 may use an LED with an integrated sensor todetermine the distance to the display surface, thereby allowing optimalclarity for the projected information and images.

The projection information 912 may include any number of feeds or otherinformation. The syndicated feeds may include any content, wires,subscription services, polled information, or other content that may bestreamed to the projection phone 906, retrieved, or otherwise requested.In one embodiment, the syndicated feed may include a priority orimportance level for each feed or newly added information. As a result,the user may establish user preferences in order to project only new orhighly important information.

The integrated projector 908 may be a fixed position projector, onlydisplaying information straight on. In another embodiment, theintegrated projector 908 may pivot, allowing the angle of projection tobe adjusted. For example, using buttons, touch screens, soft keys, orother elements of the projection phone 906, the user may point theintegrated projector 908 at a desired surface. In one embodiment, theintegrated projector 908 may use logic to display the information on aspecified surface. For example, incoming call information may bedisplayed on a portion of a desk in the color red, incoming images maybe directed at a white wall and displayed in full color, andpresentations may be directed higher up at the same wall. An adjustableprojector may allow a user to display information on a desired surface.

In one embodiment, the integrated projector 908 may be an integratedpart of the projection phone 906. In another embodiment, the integratedprojector 908 may use a USB, firewire, or other port to attached to theprojection phone 906. The integrated projector 908 may be attached ordetached from the projection phone 906, as needed. For example, theintegrated projector 908 may be attached to the VoIP phone, as well asany number of wireless messaging devices or other communicationsequipment. The integrated projector 908 may receive projectioninformation, as well as power through a connection to the projectionphone 906. However, multiple connections, ports, leads, or otherconductors may be utilized to transfer display information and powerused by the integrated projector 908.

FIG. 10 is a pictorial representation of an interactive projection phonesystem in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process ofprojecting information may include a user 1002, a projection phone 1004,a camera 1006, a projection field 1008, and a projection display 1010which may include a caller's image.

The user 1002 may be able to view a communicating party projected fromthe projection phone 1004. The caller's image shown in the projectiondisplay 1010 may be in color, black and white, or other color or displayselections. Receiving a video call may activate the projection phone1004 which generates the projection field 1008 to display a caller'simage in the projection display 1010.

The phone 1004 may also include a camera 1006. The camera 1006 is avisual recording device suitable for storing and communicating static orlive images for the projection phone 1004 through a network connection.The camera 1006 may allow the projection phone 1004 to communicate theuser's image to one or more communicating parties. The camera 1006 maybe an integrated camera or it may be a camera linked to the phone.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process for projecting video callinformation in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The processof FIG. 11 with be implemented by a VoIP phone enabled for projection ora projection phone. The process may begin when the VoIP phone receives avideo call from a caller (step 1102). The video call may be any numberof calls including a standard phone call, a call with an includedpresentation or data signal, and any number of video call formats. Theprocess of FIG. 11 may similarly be repeated for an outgoing callutilizing the projector of the VoIP phone.

Next, the VoIP phone determines whether the projector is enabled (step1104). The determination of step 1104 may be made based on usersettings, user preferences, or other information. For example, the usermay have programmed the VoIP phone to not activate the projector fromthe times of 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from the user's family. If theprojector is not enabled, the VoIP phone processes the call normally(step 1106). In other words, the VoIP phone processes the call as ifthere were no displayable content communicated to the VoIP phone.

If the VoIP phone determines the projector is enabled in step 1104, theVoIP phone activates the projector (step 1108). The projector may beturned on, warmed up, or enabled in step 1108. Next, the VoIP phonedisplays the image of the caller (step 1110). The VoIP phone may displaythe image on a specified display surface based on the user preferencesor based on another selection.

Once a video call is received 1102 a decision may be made that wouldenable the projector 1104 or simply allow the call to be processednormally. The decision to enable the projector 1104 may be configured torespond according to user preferences through the use of a graphicaluser interface as shown in FIG. 8.

If the decision was made to enable the projector 1104, the process maycontinue by activating the integrated projector 1108. Once the projectorwas activated 108 this may allow the caller's image to be displayed1110.

Next, the VoIP phone determines whether to activate the camera (step1112). The camera may be a video camera, digital camera, or web cameraintegrated or externally connected to the VoIP phone. The determinationof step 1112 may also be made based on user preferences, characteristicsof the call, or other settings. For example, in response to receivingthe video call, the camera may automatically be activated unlessselected otherwise by the user.

If the VoIP phone determines not to activate the camera, the processterminates with the projector of the VoIP phone broadcasting the imageof the caller. If the VoIP phone determines to activate the camera instep 1112, the VoIP phone transmits an image of the caller (step 1114).As a result, the call may be a true video call enabled between one ormore projection phones. The user may point the camera of the VoIP phoneto capture images or video of the user.

The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodimentsfor implementing the invention and is not intended to be limiting inscope. The following claims set forth a number of the embodiments of theinvention disclosed with greater particularity.

1. A method for projecting information from a wireless messaging device,the method comprising: receiving user preferences for projecting theinformation; detecting an event, the event is enabled to be a calendaritem, an alarm, a syndicated feed, a battery reaching a threshold, and areceived communication; and automatically projecting the informationregarding the event onto a surface according to the user preferences inresponse to detecting the event; determining which of one of a pair ofprojectors on opposite sides of the wireless messaging device issuitable for projecting the information; locating an acceptable surfaceproximate the wireless messaging device; and projecting the informationonto the acceptable surface from one of the pair of projectors that isavailable.
 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein a user configuresthe information to be displayed by one of the pair of projectorsprojecting the information of the wireless messaging device, wherein theuser preferences include at least an orientation of the information,size of the information when projected, color of the information, andwherein the orientation specifies an x and y axis for the information.3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the user preferences includean intensity of the information projected based on a type of the event.4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the user preferencesindicate an alert type that is played by the wireless messaging devicein response to detecting to accompany the projection of the event. 5.The method according to claim 1, wherein the information is calleridentification information of the received communication.
 6. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the syndicated feed is selected by a user,and wherein the syndicated feed is retrieved from one or more servers.7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the calendar item isretrieved from an electronic calendar and projected in response toreaching a time or time period associated with the calendar item.
 8. Themethod according to claim 1, wherein the automatically projectionfurther comprises: rotating one of the pair of projectors of thewireless messaging device to an orientation specified by the userpreferences, wherein the orientation specifies an x and y axis for theinformation; and projecting the information on a pre-establishedsurface.
 9. A wireless device configured for projection compromising: auser interface configured to receive user preferences for projectinginformation; display logic configured to determine that an event isoccurring and the information associated with the event, the event isenabled to be a calendar item, an alarm, a syndicated feed, a batteryreaching a threshold, and a received communication; and a projector incommunication with the display logic configured to automatically projectthe information onto a surface proximate the wireless device in responseto detecting the event and according to the user preferences, whereinthe projector further comprises a pair of projectors on opposites sidesof the wireless device, and wherein the display logic determines whichone of the pair of projectors is available to display the information onthe surface based on the positioning of the wireless device.
 10. Thewireless device according to claim 9, wherein the user preferencesestablish event requirements that must be met in order for the projectorto be activated, wherein the user preferences include at least anorientation of the information, size of the information when projected,and color of the information, and wherein the orientation specifies an xand y axis for the information.
 11. The wireless device according toclaim 9, further comprising: a transceiver in communication with thedisplay logic, wherein the display logic receives caller identificationinformation from the transceiver, and wherein the caller identificationinformation is projected in response to the event being the receivedcommunication.
 12. The wireless device according to claim 10, whereinone of the pair of projector pivots to project the information accordingto the orientation of the wireless device.
 13. The wireless deviceaccording to claim 9, wherein the projector is a laser displayconfigured to determine the location of a nearest surface, wherein thelaser display displays the information on the nearest surface.
 14. Awireless messaging device configured for projection comprising: aprocessor for executing a set of instructions; and a memory for storingthe set of instructions, wherein the set of instructions are configuredto: receive user preferences for projecting the information; detect anevent, the event is enabled to be a calendar item, an alarm, asyndicated feed, a battery reaching a threshold, and a receivedcommunication; determine a projector of a pair of projectors on oppositesides of the wireless messaging device available for projecting theinformation; locating a surface proximate the wireless messaging device;and automatically project the information regarding the event from oneof the pair of projectors that is available onto the surface accordingto the user preferences.
 15. The wireless device according to claim 14,wherein the user preferences are received through a graphical display ofthe wireless device, and wherein the user preferences including at leastan orientation of the information, size of the information whenprojected, and color of the information, wherein the orientationspecifies an x and y axis for the information.
 16. The wireless deviceaccording to claim 15, wherein the information is displayed in theorientation readable by a user by the projector utilizing one or morelight emitting diodes or lasers.
 17. The projector according to claim16, wherein the surface is the nearest surface to the wireless device,wherein the orientation of the information is rotated periodicallyduring the time the information is displayed.
 18. The wireless deviceaccording to claim 14, wherein the set of instructions further uploadsthe event and the information from a calendar program.